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SB 105

STEM+C competition team grants; DOE to consider changes to application and eligibility guidelines.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Russet Perry and 2 co-sponsors

SB 105 expands Virginia's STEM+C Competition Team Grant Program eligibility to increase student access to competitive science and technology programs statewide.

Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
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Bill Summary · SB 105

Legislative bill overview

SB 105 establishes a STEM+C (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Computer Science) Competition Team Grant Program in Virginia that provides funding to support student participation in competitive STEM activities. The bill expands eligibility criteria for grants, likely broadening access beyond previously defined parameters to include more schools and student populations.

Why is this important

STEM competition programs have been shown to improve student achievement, college readiness, and career pipeline development in high-demand fields. Expanding grant eligibility increases equitable access to these opportunities, particularly for underrepresented students and schools in under-resourced districts that might otherwise lack funding for competition teams.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal burden: The Department of Planning and Budget's fiscal impact statement suggests potential state funding implications; legislators may debate whether new appropriations are necessary or if funds should be redirected from existing programs
  • Eligibility scope creep: Broadening eligibility criteria could dilute per-team funding amounts or create administrative complexity in determining which programs qualify
  • Geographic disparities: Questions may arise about whether expanded eligibility adequately serves rural versus urban areas, and whether grant distribution mechanisms ensure equitable statewide access

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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